Yaesu FT3DR vs Yaesu VX-5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT3DR and Yaesu VX-5? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.

FeatureYaesu FT3DRYaesu VX-5
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT3DRYaesu VX-5
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3/42.3/2
Digital ModeC4FM-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2200 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh2190 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant275 mm265 mm
Width67 mm61 mm
Thickness w/clip46 mm38 mm
Weight300 g250 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSYesNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$300$125
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoNo
Value ScoreAC
Performance ScoreAC
Conclusions

So would I recommend the Yaesu FT3DR? Absolutely! I would, however, highly recommend that if you have large hands and really want to use the touchscreen that you play with one before making a final decision. It is a fantastic radio in every respect and will do pretty much anything you can think of a handheld radio can do.

Would I recommend it over the FT5DR? That too depends on what you need. The FT5DR has a nicer screen, louder audio, a USB-C port for both charging and data, IPX7 waterproofing, and is supposedly more ergonomic. To my knowledge, it doesn’t do anything the FT3DR can’t. Is that worth the currently $200-$250 more? Not to me, but maybe to you.

So what do I think about the Yaesu VX-5? It is a fine radio but just too small for me. If you have smaller hands and excellent eyesight, you may like it. It absolutely is a good performer, has excellent wideband coverage, has features that cheap and midrange radios today would envy, and is built like a tank.